These boots were made for walking

 Looking back over 2013, one of the things I'm most happy about is how much walking I did. I started off the year feeling unfit. Whenever I did any walking over a mile or so I'd get out of breath and sweaty. It wasn't enjoyable to walk so I avoided it where possible.

I wanted to change so I decided to challenge myself to walk more in 2013. I enlisted my Dad's help to join me on a weekly walk. JD joined us once he was back from visiting family in March. We walked, usually from a walk book, at least 3 miles each week. At first it was hard work and my legs ached for days after each walk. But gradually I could walk further with less aching. I felt generally fitter and got less sweaty when we walked. I started really looking forward to each walk and missed it when we couldn't go due to weather.

Which wasn't often, we walked in all weather. Even snow :)

 In the school holidays (with only a bit of complaining) we got the kids to come along too and had some really nice days out walking.

I especially enjoyed getting to spend more time with my Dad. We'd talk as we walked (when I had enough breath) about anything and everything. It was also a good opportunity for him to get to know JD better. I know my Dad loves nature as much as me so it was great to be appreciating it together.

Another thing that came from walking lots was that I lost weight. Without really trying I lost 2 stone. It felt great to feel fitter and to see the difference in my clothes getting looser. It spurred me on to eat healthier and to be more active in the rest of my life. A thing I'm going to continue into 2014.

All in all we did 37 walks throughout the year. A total of 153 miles. I'm really proud of myself for sticking with it, even on weeks I didn't really feel like it. I couldn't have done it without the help of JD and my Dad. Thanks guys xx

I feel like I've got to know a lot more of the countryside where I live. We've seen some lovely views and visited lots of places I've never been though they're close to home. We've walked through tons of mud and got lost several times but I've loved every minute of it. I'm looking forward to lots more walking in 2014! :)